How it works
The clicks are generated with the Web Audio API and scheduled against the audio clock, not a JavaScript timer. A short loop looks about 0.1 s ahead and books every click at an exact sample time, so the beat stays steady even when the page is busy or the screen scrolls.
The first beat of each bar gets a higher, louder click. In compound meters such as 6/8 and 12/8 the start of every group of three gets a medium accent; 5/8 is grouped 3+2 and 7/8 is grouped 2+2+3. Tap tempo averages your last taps (up to eight) and restarts after a pause of two seconds.
Tempo markings
Italian tempo words are conventions, not exact numbers; metronome makers and editions draw the lines slightly differently. These are the ranges this tool shows.
| Marking | BPM |
|---|---|
| Grave | < 40 |
| Largo | 40–59 |
| Larghetto | 60–65 |
| Adagio | 66–75 |
| Andante | 76–107 |
| Moderato | 108–119 |
| Allegro | 120–167 |
| Presto | 168–199 |
| Prestissimo | 200+ |
Tips
- Practise slowly first: start 10–20 BPM below the target and raise the tempo only when a passage is clean.
- Use subdivisions to keep long notes and rests steady, and switch them off once the pulse feels secure.
- Bluetooth headphones add delay. For playing along, wired headphones or the device speaker keep the click in sync.
Standards and sources
Last reviewed October 17, 2026
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is this metronome?
Each click is scheduled on the Web Audio clock about 0.1 s in advance, so timing does not drift with screen updates or busy pages. The tempo is exact to the beat; only your output device (for example Bluetooth headphones) can add a constant delay.
How does tap tempo work?
Tap the button or press T at least twice in time with the music. The tool averages the intervals of your last taps (up to eight). Wait two seconds to start a fresh measurement.
What does 6/8 sound like here?
Six clicks per bar, felt in two groups of three: the first click is accented strongly and the fourth gets a lighter accent. The BPM counts each eighth note.
Does it keep playing in the background?
Usually yes while the tab stays open, but some phones pause audio when the screen locks or the browser goes to the background. Keep the page visible for long sessions.